European Powers Move to Reimpose Iran Sanctions Over Nuclear Violations

 

Britain, France, and Germany announced on Tuesday their intention to reinstate international sanctions on Iran, claiming that Tehran has violated the terms of the 2015 nuclear deal. The announcement, made to the United Nations, sets in motion a “snapback” mechanism outlined in a U.N. resolution, which provides a 30-day window for diplomatic negotiations before the sanctions take effect.

Under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Iran agreed to limit its nuclear program in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. The European powers argue that Iran’s recent nuclear activities breach these commitments, prompting the move to restore penalties that were previously suspended.

Iran, however, rejected the announcement as “illegal” and warned that it risks undermining the “ongoing process of engagement” with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the U.N.’s nuclear watchdog. Tehran has repeatedly stated that its nuclear program is peaceful and has criticized attempts to impose sanctions as politically motivated.

The snapback mechanism, if triggered, could quickly restore a wide range of international sanctions on Iran, including restrictions on oil exports, banking, and trade. The move reflects growing tension between Iran and Western powers over nuclear compliance and regional security issues, at a time when diplomatic efforts to bring Tehran back into full compliance appear increasingly fragile.